Range
The total horizontal distance traveled by a projectile from launch to landing at the same vertical height.
Governing formula
R = (v0² sin 2θ) / g
SI unit
m
In depth
Ignoring air drag, maximum horizontal range for a given launch speed v0 is achieved at a launch angle θ = 45°. Complementary launch angles (θ and 90°-θ) yield identical range.
Examples in the real world
A golfer choosing a 45-degree angle to maximize drive distance across a fairway.